Application of a Sankey Diagram to Migration Patterns of Construction and Engineering Workforce
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Sankey diagrams are a powerful data visualization tool used to map inflows and outflows at different stages of a process.These diagrams utilized "arrows" of differing proportional widths to represent movement between stages, offering an intuitive way to analyze complex system.Sankey diagram have been widely applied in various fields most iconic being the flow of troops during Napolean's invasion of Waterloo, their use in construction publications remains exceptionally limited.A preliminary Google Scholar for "Sankey" and "Construction" yielded no results.Thus, this paper explores the utility of Sankey diagram in three approaches: First, provides a use case of Sankey diagrams in other disciplines, Second, identify uses in construction research.Finally, provides a case study of implementing Sankey diagrams in construction research.The study explores the potential of Sankey diagraming to visualize workforce migration patterns between 2013 and 2023 in construction.In inflow rates represents workers hired, while outflow denotes separation.By illustrating hiring, employment, and separations, the diagram provides a proportional representation of movement highlighting industry transitivity.This is particularly relevant given the projected 1.9 million workers migration to other sectors in 2024.The turnover rate is generally higher in the construction industry when compared to others, which may be a limiting factor in meeting projected construction workforce demands.The tool has broader applications in construction and engineering, specifically optimizing flow processes and resource planning.The case study visualizes the movement of people, the diagram can drive visual improvement in a wide range of engineering and construction areas.
Language: English
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7128022552